Eczema

What is eczema?

Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is a skin condition that results in dry, red, itchy skin. It can be a long-lasting, chronic condition that will periodically flare up. Children often develop atopic dermatitis during their first year of life. It often appears as dry, scaly patches that form on the scalp, face, and body.

What causes atopic dermatitis (eczema)?

The cause of eczema is not known, but it is not contagious or related to your general health. It mostly runs in families that have a history of atopic dermatitis, hay fever, or asthma. People with eczema have skin that is dry and easily irritated by soap, detergents, fragrances, and rough fabrics. Additionally, very hot or very cold weather will often aggravate eczema.

What are the symptoms?

Eczema will look different in infants, children, and adults. For infants (around 2 to 3 months old), atopic dermatitis causes:

A dry, scaly, itchy rash that forms on the scalp and face (especially the cheeks)

Skin infections, due to scratching and rubbing

Sleep issues

Children between the ages of 2 and puberty often experience:

A rash that begins in the creases of the knees or elbows, but can form in the neck, wrists, ankles, and the creases between the legs and buttocks

Itchy, scaly patches where the rash appeared

Bumpy, thickened, lightened, or darkened skin that may itch all of the time

For adults, atopic dermatitis often:

Causes very dry, scaly skin and a constant itch

Forms in the nape of the neck or the creases of the knees or elbows

Affects the hands and eyelids

How is atopic dermatitis treated?

Since eczema is a chronic skin issue, there is no permanent cure. Fortunately, the providers at Skin Wellness Center have effective ways of controlling atopic dermatitis. An effective treatment plan often includes skincare, medicine, and lifestyle changes. Skincare and lifestyle changes will help to prevent future flare-ups. A dermatologist-created treatment plan will include medication and therapy that are prescribed as needed and tailored specifically to you. At Skin Wellness Center, we can help you control your flares, prevent new ones from occurring, reduce your skin inflammation, and treat any infections you develop.

Schedule treatments today

Learn to manage and love the skin you’re in. At Skin Wellness center, our board-certified dermatologists will work to relieve your discomfort and prevent your eczema from getting worse. To get started, request an appointment online or call (727) 545-3376.